Thanks for these additional insights, Mike.

I've now compiled all of your e-mails into a single file for future 
reference when I get around to making one, or possibly two of these--one for 
VHF/UHF, and another for HF.

Tom Behler: KB8TYJ

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Mike Duke, K5XU" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2013 5:53 PM
Subject: Radio Box, Part 3, Final Considerations, I Think.


> Other considerations:  Because the structure of this box is very open,
> a means of securing small items such as spare fuses, antenna adapters,
> writing instruments, etc, is needed. Any pouch or box that can be
> securely closed, and that has a belt loop, or slots through which the
> ties can be passed, will serve this purpose. Simply tie the holder in
> a location that allows it to be easily opened and closed. Multiple
> holders may be necessary or convenient.
>
>
>
> It is also a good idea to have some means of quickly covering the
> entire assembly in the event of sudden weather. One or more of those
> cheap trash bag style rain slickers should be suitable. An extra one
> can be added for the benefit of the operator.
>
>
>
> Be sure to label the crate, and each piece of equipment in it, so that
> it can be identified as yours. Also keep several copies of a list of
> the model and serial numbers of the equipment. One of these lists
> should be laminated, and kept in the crate. Store another copy in a
> separate, secure place, and keep an electronic copy on your smart
> device.
>
>
>
> I have seen or read about other relatively simple radio boxes, but
> these designs all require the use of at least basic hand tools such as
> a drill, and a saw.
>
>
>
> Another local ham friend has an Icom V8000 that he mounted inside a
> camper's dry box. When in use, the antenna and power cables enter the
> box through the open lid. Since this box also sits on its side during
> use, I think of the opening as a door, rather than a lid, but you get
> the idea. This means that care must be taken to prevent the operator
> from becoming entangled in the cables, and that they sometimes are a
> bit in the way.
>
>
>
> Another neat box idea from N1GY can be found in the September, 2011
> issue of QST, under the title "The Radio in a Box, II,". This one uses
> a tool box to hold a VHF/UHF radio, a pair of 7 amp hour batteries,
> and a charger. I have considered building this one, using an HT and a
> small amplifier in place of the author's Yaesu radio, but haven't done
> so as of yet.
>
>
>
> Here is a link to his web site, which contains the full article, along
> with several others he has written.
>
>
>
> http://mysite.verizon.net/cpthaines/index.html
>
>
>
> Any radio box design is a work in progress. Each one will have some
> advantage or disadvantage over the others. This crate approach is by
> far the most simplistic I have encountered. While the open structure
> is usually a big advantage, it does mean that you must pay a bit more
> attention to the environment in which the box will be used. It can
> usually be quite functional for public service events, radio
> demonstrations, and Field Day.
>
>
>
> If you put one together, please share your thoughts about its
> performance and practicality.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Mike Duke, K5XU
> American Council of Blind Radio Amateurs
>